Former MVP candidate Isaiah Thomas is back in the NBA donning the New Orleans Pelicans jersey. One would think that Thomas has a chip on his shoulder on his return to the league. But after his first game back, Thomas believes that he doesn't have to prove himself anymore.
Per Pelicans reporter Jim Eichenhofer, Thomas shared that he's no longer hampered by any lingering health issues. To recall, Thomas had been dealing with a hip injury over the last few years. It forced not just to sit games out, but it may even be the reason why he was left without a team for a long time. Now, Thomas feels extremely healthy.
Asked if he feels like he has to prove himself physically, Isaiah Thomas said, "I don't think I've got to prove anything. I'm healthy now. I didn't even ice my hip (postgame)." Said he's ready to play in back-to-back game Wed. at Brooklyn
— Jim Eichenhofer (@Jim_Eichenhofer) April 7, 2021
In his first game back in 14 months, Thomas played 25 minutes and logged in 10 points, two rebounds, and two assists. The Pelicans weren't able to pick up the win against the Atlanta Hawks. Yet it was a telling sign that Thomas is indeed back and fully healthy.
Thomas first resurfaced into the scene in February, donning the Team USA jersey at a FIBA qualifying event. He played in just two games, but it was enough to impress league scouts once again.
“I accomplished what I set forth going out there to do. Four or five teams were calling after that very interested. Luckily New Orleans pulled the trigger and I'm here. USA, those games were helpful for me and it gave me an opportunity to show I could still play at a high level and moving like myself and that everything is fine again,” Thomas said, per Andrew Lopez of ESPN.
Fans definitely missed seeing Thomas perform. They can see him again on Wednesday when the Pelicans face the powerhouse Brooklyn Nets squad.
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